This document discusses different types of computers and input/output devices. It defines basic computer terminology and describes the boot process and how data is processed. It outlines various types of computers including microcomputers, desktops, laptops, workstations, supercomputers, mainframes, servers, and handheld devices. It details common computer components like the system unit, CPU, input devices like keyboards and mice, and output devices such as monitors, printers, and speakers. Peripheral devices are used to expand the input, output, and storage capabilities of computers.

1. Types of Computers &
Input /Output Devices
By
Mrs.M.Sharmiladevi,MCA,Mphil,
Department of Commerce,
EMG Yadava Women’s College,Madurai

2. Basic Terminology
 Computer
 A device that accepts input,
processes data, stores data,
and produces output, all
according to a series of stored
instructions.
 Hardware
 Includes the electronic and
mechanical devices that
process the data; refers to the
computer as well as
peripheral devices.
 Software
 A computer program that
tells the computer how to
perform particular tasks.
 Network
 Two or more computers and
other devices that are
connected, for the purpose of
sharing data and programs.
 Peripheral devices
 Used to expand the
computer’s input, output and
storage capabilities.

3. Computer Performance and
Processing
 Boot Process
 Bootstrapping is the process of starting up a computer from a halted or
powered-down condition.
 Data
 Refers to the symbols that represent facts, objects, or ideas.
 Information
 Processed, stored, or transmitted data.
 Output
 Consists of the processing results produced by a computer.
 Input
 Information that is created or collected and fed into the system.
 Base 2 binary code
 A numbering system with only two digits numbers are 0 and 1.
 All numbers are comprised of only these two digits.

4. Types of Computers

5. Microcomputer
 A personal computer;
designed to meet the
computer needs of an
individual.
 Provides access to a wide
variety of computing
applications, such as word
processing, photo editing,
e-mail, and internet.

6. Desktop Microcomputer
 A microcomputer that
fits on a desk and runs on
power from an electrical
wall outlet.
 The CPU can be housed
in either a vertical or a
horizontal case.
 Has separate components
(keyboard, mouse, etc.)
that are each plugged
into the computer.

7. Laptop Computer
 A portable, compact
computer that can run on
an electrical wall outlet or
a battery unit.
 All components
(keyboard, mouse, etc.)
are in one compact unit.
 Usually more expensive
than a comparable
desktop.
 Sometimes called a
Notebook.

8. Workstation
 Powerful desktop computer designed for
specialized tasks.
 Can tackle tasks that require a lot of
processing speed.
 Can also be an ordinary personal computer
attached to a LAN (local area network).

9. Supercomputer
 A computer that was the fastest in the world at the
time it was constructed.
 Can tackle tasks that would not be practical for
other computers.
 Typical uses
 Breaking codes
 Modeling weather systems

10. Mainframe
 Large expensive computer
capable of simultaneously
processing data for
hundreds or thousands of
users.
 Used to store, manage,
and process large amounts
of data that need to be
reliable, secure, and
centralized.
 Usually housed in a closet
sized cabinet.

11. Server
 Purpose is to “serve.”
 A computer that has the
purpose of supplying its
users with data; usually
through the use of a LAN
(local area network).

12. Handheld
 Also called a PDA (Personal
Digital Assistant).
 A computer that fits into a
pocket, runs on batteries, and
is used while holding the
unit in your hand.
 Typically used as an
appointment book, address
book, calculator, and
notepad.
 Can be synchronized with a
personal microcomputer as a
backup.

13. Computer Components Hardware

14. System unit
 Case that holds the power supply, storage devices, and the
circuit boards (including the motherboard).

15. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
 Where the processing in a computer takes place, often
called the brain of the computer.

16. Input Devices
 Units that gather information and transform that
information it into a series of electronic signals for
the computer.

17. Keyboard
 An arrangement of letters, numbers, and special
function keys that act as the primary input device
to the computer.

18. Mouse
 An input device that allows the user to manipulate
objects on the screen by moving the device along
the surface of a desk.

19. Sound Card
 A circuit board that gives the computer the ability
to accept audio input, play sound files, and
produce audio output through speakers or
headphones.

20. Modem
 A device that sends and receives data to and from
computers over telephone lines.

21. Output Devices
 Devices that display, print, or transmit the results
of processing from the computer’s memory.

22. Monitor
 Display device that forms an image by converting electrical signals from the
computer into points of colored light on the screen.
 Resolution
 The density of the grid used to display or print text and graphics; the
greater the horizontal and vertical density, the higher the resolution.
 Pixels
 The smallest unit in a graphic image; computer display devices use a
matrix of pixels to display text and graphics.

23. Storage Devices
 Used to keep data when the power to the computer is turned off.
 Different forms
 Hard disk
 Floppy or zip disks
 CD-Writer

24. Printer
 Output device that produces text or graphical
images on paper.

25. Speakers
 Output devices that receive signals from the
computer’s sound card to play music, narration, or
sound effects.